Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat during winter and keeps your home cool in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever needed is a great way to ensure they remain in good working order.

Over time, your double-glazed windows may suffer from issues like condensation and misting. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.

Broken Panes

A rogue ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or an intense storm could shatter your double-pane windows and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. While a damaged window may be difficult to repair, you don't have to replace it completely. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is still in good shape and you can repair your double-pane windows with some DIY effort.

To begin, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. You'll need to be careful to prevent glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping off the frame. Use a pair of work gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to protect the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or other debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new glazing.

After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass to the area where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to keep your window sealed and protected, and it will aid in reducing energy costs by keeping water and drafts from entering the house. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are many options available such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape and helps prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted to match the frame you have and will also keep out rain and snow too.

Whatever material you use it is important to press the glaziers points into that place where the putty joins your frame. They will help keep the glass in place, and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes that you can roll out on the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues and if you encounter this issue, it is best to call the company that provided the window. There are warranties and guarantees that cover these issues. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals are broken. Only an expert can fix this issue by replacing the panes.

It's a difficult process that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can do this task and supply the equipment. It is best to leave the task to professionals. These tools can be risky.

Wear safety gloves and glasses if you opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also crucial to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth are also recommended. After the frame is clean and dry, you will need to purchase a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window that you have and then fit it in the grooves.

Depending on your frames, you will then need to apply the caulk to the grooves to ensure that your new pane is securely in place. After the caulk dries, you will need to smooth it out and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding can then be put back in place.

If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or Double Glazed Window Repair expand and this can make them slide or become stuck. If this is the issue you could try wiping the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company that installed your windows to help.

Misunderstood

Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas to provide improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside which allows you to keep the temperature at a comfortable level in your home.

The seal could be damaged over time, and moisture may build up between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop within it.

This is a normal occurrence, but when it occurs between the window panes, it can cause a problem as it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room and will allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double glazed windows are becoming misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

We can replace the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window and is less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the unit of glass, then replacing it with a brand new one. This will result in a watertight seal again.

There are companies within the industry who claim to cut holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them, which they say removes the fog & condensation, however, we do not recommend this procedure. This is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and result in windows that don't completely function.

If you don't address the issue quickly it could cause mould, which can not only harm the window repairs, but also risk health issues for your family members. Moisture in the window can cause other issues within your home, such as damp or rot. In certain cases windows, they may have to be completely replaced.

Failed or Blown

Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes with an inert gas or air in between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency, allowing heat in and cold out. Over time, this gas may depressurize which can lead to a range of issues.

Condensation between the panes is among the most frequent. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is failing but it could be an indication that you have to seal your windows. Condensation can be a sign your double glazing is damaged in which case it should be replaced completely.

Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. This could be because of the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. A draught is noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs, so it is important to fix it sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to see if you feel any cold air.

You will also notice water beads on the inside of windows if the window seals aren't working. This is an indication that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.

The frames of your windows are designed to move a bit as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in the right place. Over time, this special packaging material could become compacted. This will cause the seal to become broken. This allows air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.

A blown seal is an obvious sign that your double glazing is damaged and needs to be fixed immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary purpose, which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A damaged seal could let moisture into your home, which could lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a specialist in double glazing repair when you discover a blowing seal on your double-glazed windows, as they are able to replace the whole unit.